A must-have herb for every kitchen garden, chives are easy to grow and reward gardeners with a steady supply of fresh, mild onion-flavoured leaves throughout the season. Perfect for adding a delicate savoury touch to salads, omelettes, soups and potato dishes, they can be harvested regularly to encourage fresh new growth.

Compact and attractive, chives are equally at home in garden beds, borders and containers. In summer, plants produce charming purple pom-pom flowers that are loved by pollinators and can also be used as an edible garnish.

Easy to grow and highly productive, chives are an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced gardeners looking to enjoy fresh herbs straight from the garden.

How to Sow Seeds

Method: Sow from Spring to Autumn, 5mm (1/4in) deep in groups of 3-4 seeds.
Growing notes: Remove the weaker seedlings to leave one plant per position. Allow 15cm (6in) between the plants and keep watered during the growing season. Chives will grow in any good garden soil in sun or partial shade. You can also sow indoors all year round, 3-4 seeds per pot and grow on the kitchen windowsill. Use good quality potting mix.

Growing Needs

Position: Partial shade

Plant Characteristics

Growth habit: Compact
Yield: Productive
Uses: Perfect for adding a delicate savoury touch to salads, omelettes, soups and potato dishes, they can be harvested regularly to encourage fresh new growth